How to Remove Rust Stains

Person squeezing lemon juice onto fabric with rust stain.

Wondering how to remove rust stains from fabric? If you know you may come in contact with rust, the best course of action is to wear old clothes. However, accidents happen and you may need to figure out how to get rid of unsightly rust stains.

Whether you’re dealing with rust on a favorite pair of pants or a kitchen towel mistaken for a rag, there are effective methods for removing the stains so your item will be good as new.

Steps for How to Get Rust Stains Out of Clothes and Fabric

There’s no need to panic if you happen to get rust on clothes, towels or other fabric. While you will want to avoid using chlorine bleach, which can make the stain permanent, there are other methods that will actually remove the offending rust stain.

Follow these steps to remove the stain with ease:

  • Sprinkle the stain with lemon juice or white vinegar and salt.
  • Allow the item to air-dry in the sun if possible.
  • Launder with cold water, and then repeat the process as necessary.
  • For more stubborn rust stains, purchase a commercial rust remover from a hardware store or home improvement store and follow the directions on the product label.

The quicker you can treat the rust-stained fabric, the more likely you are to have successful results. Avoid rubbing the fabric harshly, which can cause the stain to intensify or damage the fibers of the fabric. If you don’t achieve stain-free fabric the first time, repeat the method until you get the result you desire.

Do not put the clothing or fabric into the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat from the dryer will set the stain, making it more difficult to remove.

Feeling Overwhelmed Trying to Keep Everything Clean? Molly Maid Can Help.

Sometimes it feels like one thing and then another when you’re trying to keep your belongings and home spic and span. Turn to the professional house cleaning service at Molly Maid to help you keep your house in order, so you have more time to do the things you want to.

We customize home cleaning service packages based on your needs and preferences so your home is cleaner and more comfortable for you and your family.

If you could use a little more time in your day, and a spotless home environment, call us to speak with our friendly Molly Maid customer service representatives — or connect with us online now to get a free estimate for home cleaning services.